DHS Secretary Kristi Noem Travels to Minneapolis, Minnesota
Claims that Kristi Noem was fired as US Homeland Security Secretary are false, and she remains in office with full authority over DHS. DHSgov/Wikimedia Commons

Claims circulating online have suggested that US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has been dismissed following controversy over federal immigration enforcement activity in Minneapolis. Those claims are inaccurate. Noem remains in office, and there has been no announcement from the White House indicating her removal.

The confusion follows a decision by President Donald Trump to assign Tom Homan, a former senior immigration official, to oversee Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Minneapolis. The move came after a series of incidents involving federal agents prompted protests, political scrutiny and debate over enforcement tactics in the city.

Administration officials have described the change as a location-specific operational decision. They have said it does not represent a change in leadership at cabinet level and does not alter Noem's position as head of the Department of Homeland Security.

Kristi Noem Remains DHS secretary

Noem was confirmed as Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in January 2025 and continues to serve in that role. The White House has not issued any statement suggesting her dismissal, suspension or resignation.

Online speculation about her status emerged shortly after the announcement that enforcement oversight in Minneapolis would be reassigned. No official documentation or government communication has supported claims that she was removed from office.

White House briefings since the announcement have reiterated that Noem retains full authority over DHS operations nationwide, including immigration enforcement policy.

Why Tom Homan Was Sent To Minneapolis

Homan's appointment follows two fatal incidents involving federal immigration agents in Minneapolis earlier this year. The incidents led to protests, criticism from local officials and questions about the conduct of federal operations.

President Trump said Homan would act as the administration's lead representative for immigration enforcement on the ground in Minneapolis. His responsibilities include coordinating federal agencies and serving as the main point of contact during a review of enforcement activity in the city.

Federal officials also confirmed that some Border Patrol personnel were withdrawn from Minneapolis as part of an operational reassessment. The administration said enforcement would continue while efforts were made to manage tensions and review procedures.

Noem's Public Position

Noem has defended the actions of federal agencies involved in the Minneapolis operations. In public remarks, she has said enforcement activity complied with the law and criticised local political leaders, arguing that public statements contributed to heightened tensions around protests.

She has continued to appear in her official capacity since the announcement and has not indicated any intention to step down. White House officials have stated that Homan's deployment does not alter Noem's authority or responsibilities within the administration.

Political Criticism Continues

Although Noem remains in office, political criticism has intensified. Several Democratic lawmakers have called for her resignation, citing concerns about transparency and the handling of enforcement operations.

No impeachment proceedings have been initiated, and Congress has not taken formal action against her. DHS has also not announced any internal disciplinary measures connected to the Minneapolis incidents.

Why The Distinction Matters

The controversy highlights broader disputes over immigration enforcement, federal authority and accountability. The reassignment of operational oversight in Minneapolis reflects a shift in how enforcement is being managed in that city.

Despite widespread claims online, Kristi Noem has not been removed from her position. The administration has focused on adjusting enforcement operations while keeping existing leadership in place, leaving Noem at the centre of an ongoing and politically charged debate.

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